Tulbagh and the many reasons to love it

Winona Griggs

Tulbagh – A Place of Delightful Surprises!

Hey there! Have you ever heard of Tulbagh? No? Well, let me introduce you to this incredible place that has so much to offer. Tulbagh is a hidden gem nestled in the Western Cape of South Africa. Here, you’ll find a harmonious blend of rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm-hearted locals. Prepare to be amazed!

When you visit Tulbagh, you’ll be transported back in time. It’s like taking a journey through history. Imagine walking down the charming Church Street, lined with beautiful Cape Dutch architecture. These historic buildings have stood the test of time and continue to tell their stories to anyone who cares to listen. The grandeur of these structures will leave you awestruck.

But wait, it doesn’t end there! Tulbagh is also known for its incredible wine estates. Picture yourself strolling through acres of vineyards, the sun kissing your skin and a gentle breeze whispering through the leaves. You’ll have the chance to taste world-class wines that have been lovingly crafted by passionate winemakers. Each sip is a sip of heaven!

If you’re a nature enthusiast, Tulbagh will steal your heart. Surrounded by majestic mountains, this town offers an abundance of outdoor activities. From hiking trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints to mountain biking routes that will get your heart racing, there’s something for everyone. And let’s not forget about the vibrant birdlife and the serene beauty of the indigenous flora – a true feast for the senses!

Now, let’s talk about Tulbagh’s people – warm, friendly, and always ready to welcome you with open arms. They take great pride in their town and love sharing its secrets with visitors. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel a sense of belonging. It’s like being embraced by a big, happy family. You’ll be spoiled with warm smiles, engaging conversations, and a genuine interest in making your visit unforgettable.

So, what are you waiting for? Tulbagh is calling your name! Whether you’re a history buff, a wine connoisseur, an adventure seeker, or simply someone who loves experiencing the beauty of new places and meeting incredible people, Tulbagh has it all. Come and be captivated by the magic of this town – you won’t be disappointed!

Tulbagh and the many reasons to love it

Nestled beautifully in a lush valley and surrounded by breathtaking mountains, Tulbagh is a charming town with a rich history. It’s only a 90-minute drive from Cape Town and is located near Ceres and Wolseley. Tulbagh offers a wide range of exciting activities, from quirky rubber ducky races to thrilling adventure sports. You can also enjoy the great outdoors, indulge in delicious cuisine, and explore the town’s vibrant art scene and top-notch wineries. With so much to offer, Tulbagh definitely deserves a spot on your list of must-visit places.

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By Allison Foat

Tulbagh and the many reasons to love it

Picture: Tulbagh Tourism

Wine & Art

Imagine a place where wine flows freely and art blooms. That’s Tulbagh, a little slice of heaven nestled in the Cape Winelands. It has a long history of winemaking, and one of its most iconic spots is Saronsberg, an ancient winery that has stood the test of time since the 1700s, just like its neighboring estates.

When you step into Saronsberg, you’ll be greeted by a remarkable sight. The tasting room is not just a place to sample exquisite wines but also an art gallery. As you sip on your wine, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking masterpieces crafted by renowned South African artists like Colbert Mashile, Walter Battiss, and Angus Taylor. Don’t miss the chance to admire Taylor’s ‘Lady of the Lake’ sculpture, majestically perched at the edge of a serene little lake.

For a unique experience, why not hop on a bike and pedal your way through the picturesque landscape? Rent a bike from Vindoux Guest Farm and Spa and take an easy five-minute ride to Saronsberg. If you’re up for more, there are plenty of other wineries within a ten-kilometer radius of Tulbagh waiting to be explored. Just be sure to pace yourself and avoid overindulging, or you might find yourself in a less picturesque setting—in a ditch!

Cuisine

Do you want a breakfast so good it’s worth traveling for? Look no further than Daphne’s. This trendy restaurant, located in a renovated parsonage, has quickly become a favorite among locals. Owner David Nicholls believes in cooking food that brings joy, and his partner Arthur Malan-Murison helped create a menu that reflects this philosophy. In the kitchen, Chef Henzene Jamoet brings these dishes to life with skill and precision. But it’s not just the food that’s impressive. The restaurant is also adorned with artwork from David’s personal collection, featuring talented artists like Dawie du Toit, Gregor Gleiwitz, and Andy Fullalove. Come to Daphne’s for a breakfast experience that will leave you feeling satisfied and inspired.

Tulbagh and the many reasons to love it

Welcome to the Kitchen Garden!

Right across from Daphne’s, in the Tulbagh Kitchen Garden, you have the opportunity to personally select your own organic fruits and vegetables. This is especially great for those who wish to cook for themselves! You can even order a basket of goodies to be delivered to anywhere between Tulbagh and Muizenberg. Our idea was inspired by the amazing Babylonstoren and the Oranjezicht City Farm, who also supply us with their delightful produce. Our gardens, located in a row of charming Cape Dutch houses on Church Street, are open every day of the week. They are carefully tended to by our wonderful team, led by Jayson Augustyn-Clarke, along with dedicated green thumbs like Jim Soko, who has a special ability to communicate with plants. We also donate our surplus produce to soup kitchens in different areas, including Woodstock. So not only can you enjoy the freshest and tastiest ingredients, but you also contribute to a great cause!

Supporting Local Businesses

Tulbagh and the many reasons to love it

Hey there! I’m Gail, the proud owner of MIT – Made In Tulbagh & Surrounds, a special store and deli that I run. What makes my place unique is that I focus on selling products that are made right here in our lovely town of Tulbagh. So, you can be sure that everything you find here is locally sourced and supports our community.

When you step into my store, you’ll find an amazing variety of goods. Let me give you a taste of what you can expect. How about some soap made with delicious stout beer? It’s a unique twist that adds a little something extra to your skincare routine. If you’re looking for something more playful, we have hand-crafted toys that will bring joy to both kids and the young at heart.

Jewellery is another highlight of our collection. We have stunning pieces that are carefully crafted with love and attention to detail. If you’re a fan of all things shiny, you’ll definitely find something here that catches your eye. And for those who appreciate the art of glasswork, we have wine glasses that have been transformed into beautiful, upcycled pieces by the talented Ben Louw.

Speaking of Ben Louw, he’s not only a master of glasswork but also a marshal at the recent Duck Race. His skills are incredible, and I’d be more than happy to tell you all about his amazing homeware and artwork when you come by for a visit. Trust me, it’s worth checking out!

Ready for some delicious treats?

Tulbagh and the many reasons to love it

Hey there! Let’s talk about a really cool place called Kole & Deeg on Main Street. It’s the go-to spot for breakfast, and it’s been voted the best place for takeout and desserts by Eat Out. When it comes to baked goods, this place is top-notch, especially when it comes to their traditional pastry called roosterkoek. Trust me, it’s a real treat!

Now, let me tell you about this awesome coffee shop called Comrade Coffee. It’s right next door to MIT and was opened a few months ago by an entrepreneurial person named Kuena Marake and their partners. The doors open bright and early at 6:30 in the summer, so it’s the perfect place to grab a smooth flat white and a panini before starting your day in Tulbagh. Talk about a great way to kickstart your morning!

Have you heard about the Tuk-tuk tours and picnic?

If you’re in the mood for a unique way to get to the church on time or explore the town and surrounding areas, Sparky and Mo have got you covered. These two bright red tuk-tuks are available for rent from Wittedrift Manor or Readers Restaurant. Whether you want a guided tour or prefer to go it alone, Carol Collins, the general manager at Wittedrift and a trained chef, will help plan your day. You’ll have plenty of options, like trying olive and oil tastings at Oakhurst Olives, sampling MCC at Krone or Twee Jonge Gezellen, enjoying wine and art at Saronsberg, or indulging in a picnic lunch at Oude Compagnies, which includes a unique red wine barrel tasting.

Tulbagh and the many reasons to love it

Your Ceres Adventure: Ziplining through the Hills

Hey there! I want to share something super cool with you. Have you ever wondered what it feels like to soar through the air like a bird? Well, I’ve got just the thing for you! Just a short drive away from Tulbagh, in the beautiful town of Ceres, lies the absolute best and longest zipline in all of Africa. It’s called the Ceres Zipline, and trust me, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

What makes the Ceres Zipline so special, you ask? Let me tell you! Picture this: cables stretching across the valley, ranging from 100 to an amazing 291 meters in length. And get this – the highest point of the zipline is a whopping 40 meters above the ground! Can you imagine the rush you’ll feel as you zoom through the air, surrounded by the breathtaking rocky hills formations?

Now, here’s the really exciting part. The Ceres Zipline adventure is made up of not one, not two, but eight thrilling slides. These slides combine to create a heart-pounding, 1.4-kilometer journey that will have your heart racing and your spirit soaring. And the best part? This adventure is suitable for both adults and kids! So, if you’re looking for a family-friendly activity that will leave everyone buzzing with excitement, look no further.

But safety first, right? Don’t worry – the experienced crew at Ceres Zipline has got you covered. They will be by your side every step of the way, making sure your gear is secure and you’re safe throughout the entire adventure. Plus, they’ll even help you capture those Instagram-worthy moments, so you can relive the thrill again and again.

Ready for some even better news? The Ceres Zipline is open every single day of the year. Rain or shine, you can count on this exhilarating experience to be there, just waiting for you to take the leap. So, gather your family and get ready for an unforgettable day of fun and adventure.

Where to Stay

I absolutely love the peacefulness of a secluded staycation, and Raptor Rise guest farm is the perfect place for it. It’s just a short drive from town, but once you arrive, you feel like you’re in a whole different world. When I wake up in the morning, I can see hens roaming on the front lawn and rescue horses grazing in the beautiful paddocks, surrounded by majestic mountains. It’s a sight that truly takes my breath away.

During my stay, I love spending lazy days by the pool, completely immersed in a good book. It’s so relaxing and rejuvenating. But if you’re someone who likes to keep active, there are plenty of options for you too. The farm is surrounded by wonderful hiking, biking, and running trails. No matter how you choose to spend your time, there’s always something to do and explore.

One of the highlights of my stay is trying the farm’s cold-pressed Extra Virgin olive oil. It’s absolutely delicious and a wonderful example of the incredible local products that come from this abundant valley. The self-catering units at Raptor Rise are also fantastic. They’re spacious and equipped with top-notch appliances, making your stay comfortable and enjoyable.

If you’re planning a special occasion, Raptor Rise is the perfect destination. With a capacity to accommodate 32 guests, it’s an ideal place to celebrate and create lasting memories. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or any other special event, Raptor Rise can make it truly unforgettable.

Don’t forget to check out the upcoming festive season’s events at tulbaghtourism.co.za. They’re sure to bring even more joy and excitement to your stay.

So why wait? Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of Raptor Rise guest farm. You won’t be disappointed.

Photos: Allison Foat

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